National Estuaries Day at Rookery Bay

The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is hosting a special 40th Anniversary National Estuaries Day celebration with free admission to the Environmental Learning Center from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This annual event includes staff-narrated boat tours (bus transportation provided to the boat 15 minutes away), introductory 30-minute kayaking trips, stand-up paddleboarding demos on Henderson Creek, Estuary Encounter experience, live animal presentations, crafts, Junior Scientist lab activities and more. Additionally, two food trucks will be on site during lunch hours.

A special feature for this year’s event will include a retrospective of 40 years of coastal stewardship, shown through a selection of short films by award-winning documentary filmmaker Elam Stoltzfus and Live Oak Production Group. Shorts include cameos by individuals instrumental in the creation of the reserve and many partners who continue to help the reserve meet its mission.

Activities are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign up begins when doors open at 9 a.m. Age restrictions may apply, please see website for more information: www.rookerybay.org/national-estuaries-day.

A limited number of Express tickets are available for $25, with proceeds benefiting the Friends of Rookery Bay. Express ticket registration is required and opens Aug. 30, at www.rookerybay.org/calendar.